T21Mom: Episode 148-Sweet Stories of Inclusion: A Conversation With Author Jeana Atkison on Her Book How to Eat a Cupcake
In this episode, Mary is joined by child author Jeana Atkison to talk about her new children's book How to Eat a Cupcake.  They discuss the inspiration behind the story, how it subtly and beautifully includes characters with disabilities, and why representation in children's literature is so important. Jeana shares her thoughts on integrating inclusion naturally through storytelling and the message she hopes kids and families take away from the book.
Order your copy of How to Eat a Cupcake at paperseedpress.com
Follow T21Mom:
Facebook: @T21Mom
Instagram: @Trisomy21Momma
X: @Trisomy21Momma
-------- Â
35:10
T21Mom:Episode 147-Glitter Glue & Grace: A Love Letter to My Tribe
Please like and subscribe and even leave a review!
In this deeply personal and heartfelt episode of the T21Mom podcast, Mary opens up about a heavy season filled with hospital visits, health scares, and the current challenges of parenting. But through it all, one thing has kept her going-her tribe of Haunted Rocking Moms.
These incredible women, all moms of children with Down syndrome have wrapped Mary in love, laughter, and support when she's needed it most. From surprise gifts to heartfelt messages, they've reminded her that she's never alone.
This episode is a love letter to her tribe-a warm thank you and a reminder of the power of community when life gets hard. Â
-------- Â
12:30
T21Mom: Episode 146- 11 Days to Forever: Cathy's Diagnosis Story
Please subscribe and leave a review!
In this heartfelt episode, Mary chats with Cathy Middlestetter, mom to 27 year-old Cassie, who has Down syndrome. Cathy received a prenatal diagnosis just 11 days before Cassie was born-without the support of social media or online communities.
Mary loved hearing Cathy's journey-how her strength, determination, and how she found connection in those early days. From breastfeeding to inclusion, Cathy was a true trailblazer for the Down syndrome community.
Tune in to hear a story of courage, love and finding your people.
Connect with Mary: T21Mom.com Follow, subscribe and leave a review to support the show!
-------- Â
49:41
T21Mom: Episode 145-Rock Your Socks-the Joy and Real Talk of World Down Syndrome Day
Happy World Down Syndrome Day! Today we are celebrating the incredible individuals who rock that extra chromosome-and yes, we're also rocking our mismatched socks! In this episode we dive into the fun and the real talk of World Down Syndrome Day.
World Down Syndrome Day is a day for joy, advocacy, and raising awareness, but let's be real-it can also be a tough day for some parents. Whether you're dancing in celebration or feeling all the emotions, this episode is for you!
So grab you mismatched socks, hit play, and let's celebrate together-whatever that looks like for you today.
Â
-------- Â
17:35
T21Mom-Episode 144: Surviving the Chaos: High School Anxiety, Special O Wins & The Great iPad Destruction
Be sure to give a rating and leave a review!
Â
Hey friends, it's your friend Mary, and yes-I'm back! Life threw a few curveballs (because of course it did) and I needed a minute. But I missed you all, so let's catch up!
Â
In this episode, I'm sharing all the chaos, laughs, and real talk about what's been going on. From my aunt's health scare, to Dennis bravely tackling Costco (on a Saturday no less), to Ainsley's latest adventures -including her ongoing mission to break every iPad screen ever made.
Â
Tune in to hear:
- Why my house feels like a circus with aging parents, Ainsley and family responsibilitiesÂ
-Ainsley's ever-changing vocal stims (from wailing on a plane to grunting-I'll take it)
- How we accidentally joined Special Olympics and why I'm so glad we did
- The very real anxiety of high school transitions (spoiler: there are zero childcare options)
- Some unexpected wins-like Ainsley rocking swim physio, actually wearing goggles, and improving her reading skills!
My attempts at self-care (running, reading and knitting my "Paris socks"_
Let's be real-some days are just HARD. But there are always bright spots and I'm holding onto those.
Links & Resources:
Book I'm reading: I Don't Do Disability and Other Lies I've Told Myself by Adele Purdham
Have topic ideas or want to share your story? Leave me a message at T21Mom.com
Thanks for listening-l love you all! Keep on lovin' on your rockin' kiddos and I'll see you next time!Â